New Zealand apple production in MY (market year) 2010 is poised to make a comeback, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

After bad weather reduced yield to 420,000 metric tons (MT) in MY 2009, it is expected to rise to 471,000 MT. Of that, 297,000 MT are forecast for export.

The greater production expectations do not apply to the Jazz apple variety, which has had low yield for the last two seasons and may be entering a third disappointing growing period, according to the report. Jazz covers 11% of planted land, and some farmers are looking into replacing those trees with other varieties, the report said.

The entire New Zealand apple industry was described in the report as “treading water” because growers are not making enough to invest in their orchards.

Pear production is also expected to rise, to 15,200 MT in MY 2010, up from 14,200 MT in MY 2009.

Good weather and more planting area will contribute to higher yields, according to the report. Planted area increased by about 5% for both fruits.

Source: www.freshfruitportal.com